The Catholic Church's Last Rites, also known as the Celebration of Viaticum, are a series of prayers and multiple sacraments performed by a priest for someone dying.   Viaticum is a term developed by the Catholic Church that denotes the reception of Holy Communion by a sick person on their deathbed.  The word "viaticum" is derived from the Latin word "via" meaning "way" and refers to a provision for a journey. 

• Sacrament of Healing-Reconciliation (Opportunity for confession of sins if the individual requests it)

• Sacrament of Healing-Anointing of the Sick (Known as "Extreme Unction" when received during Last Rites)

• Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist-Viaticum (Holy Communion given as food for the journey to eternal life)

• Prayers-Commendation of the Dying and Prayers for the Dead

These rites are highly valued by Catholics as powerful aids to a good death. Since Holy Communion is the effective sign of Christ’s Paschal Mystery, it becomes for the recipient the opportunity to unite one’s own suffering and dying to that of Christ with the hope of life eternal with him. The special words proper to Viaticum are added: “May the Lord Jesus protect you and lead you to everlasting life. Amen.”

These combined sacraments and prayers are intended to assure forgiveness of sins and entrance into heaven. They are “the sacraments that prepare for our heavenly homeland” (cf. CCC, no. 1525)

Some recommend calling a priest as soon as possible, especially if the person is still conscious, to avoid the possibility of the person being unable to participate in the sacraments.

In response to the eagerness of Pope Francis for the earthly comfort and the eternal salvation of many who, in this present crisis, will find themselves at the point of death without an opportunity for the sacraments of the church, an extraordinary indulgence has been granted to offer comfort and reassurance to those whose circumstances of isolation or quarantine deny a priest the access to minister to them, or whom a priest is unable to attend for any other reason.

The Decree of the Apostolic Penitentiary says, “The Church prays for those who find themselves unable to receive the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick and of the Viaticum, entrusting everyone to divine Mercy by the goodness under the communion of saints and granting the faithful a Plenary Indulgence on the point of death, provided that they are duly disposed and have recited a few prayers during their lifetime (in this case the Church makes up for the three usual conditions required). To attain this indulgence, the crucifix or the cross is recommended.”

If there is no cross or crucifix in the house to place in the room of the dying person, no anxiety is to be felt, as a recommendation is not a condition. “Duly disposed” means that a person repents their sins and desires God's forgiveness.

In addition, the decree tells us that the gift of other special Indulgences is granted to the faithful suffering from COVID-19 disease, healthcare workers, family members, and all those who in any capacity, including through prayer, care for them. The decree can be read in full at https://tinyurl.com/2020indulgence

If you or a loved one might be in a situation where it is appropriate to receive the Catholic Church's LAST RITES, contact the pastor at 337-783-2968.